“Why do you still take lessons? Don’t you know how to ride by now?” Many of us have probably heard this question from confused ‘non-horsey’ friends and family, but as any rider knows, there is always way more to learn when it comes to horses. In fact, it seems that the more we ride, the more we realize how much we still need to learn!
The fact that there is always more to know and improve upon is what makes our riding and relationship with horses so exciting. There will never come a point when we could claim to know it all. Those with a lifetime of horse experience still work to increase their knowledge and skill, while even the best in the world still take lessons. It’s so easy to fall into certain routines and habits on our own, which is why we all need outside input in order to become better riders.
Instructors offer knowledge, guidance, a fresh perspective, and much-needed encouragement (in all its many forms!) They push us to accomplish things we might not have known we could do. We all need someone to challenge us, for that is how we continue to improve. At times the learning curve is steep and we struggle, but those tough lessons usually turn out to be the ones that ultimately teach us the most.
We hope that everyone is able to get out there in this lovely summer weather and continue to learn, whether it be from a quiet hack out with your horse or in a rigorous jumping clinic. Horses have so much to teach us, and as one of our childhood instructors once said, “Learning to ride is a lifetime pursuit, but it is worth every minute!” Happy trails, everyone!
